MELAKA: The older generation in Melaka is not feeling the campaigning heat, citing unfamiliar digital platforms which are preventing them from engaging with their respective candidates.
With strict guidelines imposed on the state election campaign period amidst the Covid-19 pandemic to ensure limited physical contact between candidates and voters, the usual fanfare-filled campaigning period has turned into a more sombre affair.
Ahmad Burok, 86, said it has been a slow campaigning period even though it started on Monday.
"I understand that the guidelines implemented are to ensure the safety of the people and voters from the spread of the Covid-19 virus until polling day on Nov 20.
"I did not expect the campaigning period to be as festive as normal elections, but until today I still do not feel the 'heat' of the elections."
Ahmad, who has experienced around 10 elections, said the new normal guidelines has changed the experience for him and his friends who are not well-versed with digital platforms.
However, he said, it would not stop them from voting.
"Despite it being hard for us to access the campaigns online, my friends and I will still exercise our rights to vote because it is important for the next generation.
"But at least there are still candidates' posters and party banners hung around the area showing that the elections are here," he said.
Sharing the same sentiment with Ahmad was Mansor Ahmad, 83, who said the new online campaign concept has hindered him from learning more about the candidates.
"Without the usual ceramah, I cannot learn more about the candidates as well as their mission and vision for the constituency because I have no access to social media," he said.
The Election Commission (EC) has announced that any form of campaign such as walkabouts, ceramah as well as house visits are not allowed throughout the 12-day campaigning period.